The P.A.C.T. — Picatinny Arsenal Cares Team project stands as my first major commissioned illustration initiative, created between 2023 and 2024 at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey. The vision began with Amy Gopal, the installation’s Substance Abuse Coordinator, whose passion for supporting Soldiers and civilians battling addiction inspired a bold idea: a team of superheroes representing the real-life departments dedicated to protecting the community’s well-being.
Amy entrusted me with bringing this vision to life. Drawing from her concept, I illustrated eight heroes — each modeled after the leaders of their respective programs, including Amy herself as the champion of the ASAP (Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program). Even I became part of the team as Steampunk J, the superhero embodiment of Nutrition. Together, these characters formed the P.A.C.T., a united force symbolized by a rising sun logo whose rays represent each hero’s contribution to the community.
The project debuted during Red Ribbon Week, in front of an audience of over 500 people — the first time my illustrative work was showcased publicly on such a large scale. Though my military duties later moved me away from Picatinny, this project remains one of the most meaningful contributions of my career, created to uplift those who struggle and to give them heroes who look like the people who serve them every day.
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The P.A.C.T. project was designed to transform real-world support programs into a visual narrative that inspires hope, awareness, and connection. Each hero represents a department committed to improving quality of life for Soldiers and DOD civilians — from Substance Abuse Prevention to Nutrition, Mental Health, Family Support, and more. By illustrating the actual individuals who lead these programs, the project humanizes the services available on post and turns them into recognizable symbols of strength and care. The sunrise emblem became the heart of the brand: a horizon of renewal, with each ray symbolizing a hero’s role in safeguarding the community. The characters were unveiled during Red Ribbon Week, a national observance dedicated to combating drug addiction, making the debut not just an artistic milestone but a moment of genuine community impact. PACT’s purpose extends beyond Picatinny Arsenal. Amy’s long-term vision — and mine — is for these heroes to grow into a recognizable symbol across the military, promoting awareness, resilience, and the message that help is always available. The project blends illustration, character design, community outreach, and storytelling into a unified effort to support those who need it most.
